German chancellor skips European Political Community summit

Germany’s chancellor Friedrich Merz will not attend the European Political Community summit in Yerevan, marking the country’s first absence from the forum.

The gathering brings together around 50 European leaders to discuss security and regional cooperation, particularly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Canada’s prime minister Mark Carney has been invited as a guest.

The meeting is seen as a chance to strengthen coordination among mid-sized countries amid shifting global tensions.

Leaders from across Europe, including EU members and Western Balkan states, are expected to attend.